Jon Gruden says the N.Y. Jets QB competition between Michael Vick and Geno Smith will likely be a photo finish

Jon Gruden said on a Tuesday conference call that this summer’s New York Jets quarterback competition between veteran free-agent addition Michael Vick and Geno Smith will likely come down to a dead heat.

“It’s a horse race. This might be a photo finish – you might need to ask me this after we’ve seen the preseason just because Michael Vick has an association with (Jets offensive coordinator) Marty Mornhinweg,’’ the ESPN analyst said, referencing Vick’s 2010 Pro Bowl renaissance under the former Philadelphia Eagles coordinator. “I do like what Geno Smith did as a rookie quarterback in the NFL.’’

Smith overcame a glaring lack of skill-position talent to lead the Jets to an 8-8 finish, including wins in three of their last four games.

The 2013 second-round pick out of West Virginia threw for 12 touchdowns with 21 interceptions.

“He had a rocky beginning, he had some rough outings,’’ Gruden said. “(But) he showed some mental and physical toughness. And I think he improved.

“If its close, the tie goes to the second-year player.’’

Asked what the Jets should do if Texas A&M 2012 Heisman Trophy winner Johnny Manziel is still available when they select 18th overall in next Thursday night’s draft, Gruden, who considers Manziel the best player in this draft, cracked,

“If Johnny Manziel is there at No. 18, I’ll give you my cell phone number and I’ll take you out to a steak dinner.’’